Cellulose fibrillating machine



June 17, 1958 D. A. DENT 2,838,931

CELLULOSE FIBRILLATING MACHINE Filed March 2, 1956 5 Sheets-Sheet-1 FIG. I

R. DAVID A. DENT BY @QMW - ATT'Y-S June 17, 1958 D. v A. DENT CELLULOSE FIBRILLATING MACHINE 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed March 2, 1956 INVENTOR. DAVID A. DENT 2 BY ATT'YS June 17, 1958 D. A. DENT CELLULOSE FIBRILLATING MACHINE 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 Filed March 2, 1956 m m m w.

DAVID A. DENT ATT'YS June 17, 1958 D. A. DENT 2,833,981

CELLULOSE FIBRILLATING MACHINE I Filed March 2,- 1956 5 Sheets-Sheet 4 FIG.6

FIG. 8 j A I I 72 IN V EN TOR.

AvQMQ LN ATT'YS June 17, 1958 -r CELLULOSE FIBRILLATING MACHINE 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 Filed March 2, 1956 AR HOT WATER IO% PULP FINISHED PRODUCT WAX AND WATER.

ROCESS WATER WAX LAYER SCREEN SKIMMING TAN K PROCESS WATER INVENTOR. DAVID A. DENT ATT'YS United States This invention relates to machines for fibrillating cellulosic pulp.

The paper-making industry seeks to recover fibers from once-used cellulose material by a process of fibrillating pulp formed from such material. In attempting such a recovery it is imperative to so thoroughly disintegrate the once-used material that subsequent washings and treatments will completely separate from the cellulose fibers the inks, waxes, clay, and other non-cellulosic substances which were a part of the once-used material.

The main objects of this invention, therefore, are to provide an improved machine for fibrillating pulp made from used or new cellulosic materials; to provide an improved machine of this kind forming between relatively-rotating cylindrical elements a circuitous passage which cellulosic pulp is forced to traverse by centrifugal and gravitational pressures created within a supporting tank; to provide an improved arrangement of pronged surfaces and obstructions on these relatively-rotating elements which so activate the pulp traversing the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating operation; and to provide an improved machine of this kind which is relatively simple in structure hence comparatively economical to manufacture, and which is highly efficient in securing an almost complete recovery of pure fiber.

One specific embodiment of this invention is shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a vertical, sectional, elevation of a machine constructed in accordance with this invention;

Fig. 2 is an enlarged, fragmentary, sectional view of a right-hand portion of the structure shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a transverse sectional view of one-half of the machine shown in Fig. 1, taken on the plane of the line 33 of Fig. l; i

Fig. 4 is a similar view taken on the plane of the line 44 of Fig. 1;

Fig, 5 is a similar view taken on the plane of the line 5-5 of Fig. 1; i

Fig. 6 is'a very much enlarged,partly-sectional and partly elevational View of a fragment of one of the pronged plates and strips which are fixed to most of the opposed 'faces of the relatively-rotating elements forming the cir-' cuitous passage between the tank inlet and outlet;

' Fig. 7'is an enlarged, fragmentary, elevation, taken on the plane of the line 77 of Fig. 2, showing one of the many angularly-disposed fins fixed on certain of the rotating elements;

Fig. 8 is a similar view taken on the plane of the line mum percentage of pure fibers from once-used material.

The essential concept of this invention involves radiatent O ally-spaced, axially-overlapping, relatively-rotating cylindrical elements disposed in a tank to form a circuitous passage between inletand outlet ports, the opposed faces of the elements having various combinations and arrangements of pronged plates, strips, and angulated fins fixed thereon to so further restrict the circuitous passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the inlet port and, by gravitationaland centrifugal forces, cause to traverse the passage for discharge from the tank outlet.

A cellulose fibrillating machine embodying this concept comprises a tank A wherein is arranged a stator B and rotor C each mounting a series of radially-spaced, concentric prongand fin-surfaced, cylindrical elements so interposed in axially-overlapping relationship to form a restricted circuitous passage between the tank inlet and outlet ports.

The tank A is a conventional sheet-metal shell 12 of cylindrical form which, in the use herein indicated, preferably is set upright. However, with the herein-described internal mechanism, it might also be used effectively in horizontal position. i

Inwardly from the bottom of the shell 12 are bonded a pair of transverse, axially-spaced disks 13 and 14 forming a fiber-accumulating chamber 15 between them. The upper end of the shell is closed by a cover 16 and axially inward thereof mounts a ring 17 which, along with the hereinafter-described parts, constitutes a portion of the circuitous passage between a tank inlet port 18 and an outlet port 19. p

The inlet port 18 is located at one side of the shell 12 directly above the ring 17. The outlet port 19 here is shown located at the opposite side of the shell 12 directly above the disk 13. Adjacent the outlet port 19 the disk 13 is providedwith a drain outlet 20 from the chamber 15. Below the disk 13 the shell 12 is formed with a number of access openings 21.

The stator B comprises the disk 14 and four primary cylindrical elements 22, 23, 24, and 25 and the auxiliary element 26. I 7

The element 23, at its lower end, is integral with a base section 27 of a dimension that disposes the cylindrical part 23 about midway between the axis of the disk 14 and the shell 12. The upper end of the element 23 is formed with a radially-disposed, integral flange 28 which is bonded at its outer periphery to the shell 12 by a reinforcing ring 29.. The flange thus forms a platform, nearly medially of the disk 14 and ring 17, for the support of the elements 24 and 25.

The innermost element 22 is of a diameter somewhat less than the element 23 but slightly longer axially. The element 22is bonded to the base section 27 of the element 23 by a reinforcing ring- 31 and the top of the element 22 extends a short distance above the platform 28. The base section 27 and the disk 14 are formed with an annular series of apertures 30 affording communication between the space within the element 22 and the chamber 15.

The elements 24 and 25 are bonded to the platform 28 by reinforcing rings 32 and 33 respectively. The element 24 is considerably longer, axially, than the element 25. t

The auxiliary element 26 comprises a ring plate 34 and an annulus 35 bondedtogether by a ring 36, with their inner peripheries flush. At its outer periphery, the ring plate 34 is bonded to the tank shell 12 by a reinforcing ring 37. The ring plate 34 is formed with an annular series of apertures 38 disposed under the annulus 35. The annulus 35 being of less width than the ring plate 34 provides an annular passage leading from the space above the annulus 35 to the apertures 38 in the'ring plate 34.

The rotor C comprises a disk 41 and three cylindrical elements 42, 43, and 44.

The disk 41 is secured to a shaft 46 journaled on bearings 47 and 48 fixed to the disk 14 and the cover 16 respectively. The positioning of the disk 41 on the shaft 46 disposes the disk in radial alinement with the annulus of the auxiliary element 26. in diameter the disk 41 is slightly less than the inside diameter of 'the auxiliary element 26, thereby forming a narrow annular passage 49 between the opposed peripheral edges of the disk 41 and the auxiliary element 26.

The innermost rotor element 42 here is shown in the form of a hollow drum of a height about one-third the length of the stator element 22. The drum 42 is fixed to rotate with the shaft 46 adjacent the stator base section 27 and disk 14.

The intermediate rotor element 43 is bonded to the disk 41, by a reinforcing ring 51, so as to position the element 43 nearly equidistant between the stator elefnents 22 and 23. The rotor element 43 is of a length so that it extends downwardly to a point quite close to the base section 27 of the stator element 23.

The rotor element 44 is bonded to the peripheral edge of thedisk 41 by a reinforcing ring 52 and is disposed nearly equi distant between the stator elements 24 and 25. The rotor element 44 is of a length to extend quite close to the stator platform 28.

This axial-overlapping of these radially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements thus forms a comparatively narrow and very circuitous passage between the tank inlet 18 and the tank outlet 19 which the cellulosic pulp must traverse during the relative rotation of these several stator and rotor elements.

To further restrict this circuitous passage, with a view to accelerating the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp passing therethrough, much of the opposed surfaces of these elements have variously arranged thereon pronged plates, pronged strips, angulated fins, and bafiles as now Will be set forth, first with regard to the stator elements, 22, 23, 24, 25, and 26 and then the rotor elements 41, 42, 43, and 44.

The form of the pronged plates and pronged strips is shown in exaggerated cross section and elevation in Fig. 6. As here noted, the prongs 53 extend upward from and nearly perpendicular to a flat base 54 in transverse rows, checkerboard fashion.

The stator element 22' has the entire interior surface, for its full length, lined 'with a pronged plate 56. On the exterior surface of the element 22 is arranged a series of axially-spaced rings 57, the upper and lower rings being located a short distance in from the respective ends of the element 22. The exterior surface of the element 22, between the'rings 57' mounts pronged plates 58 extending entirely around the element. Extending lengthwise of the element 22, and secured to'and spanning the rings 57, are pronged strips 59, the prongs appearing on both faces of these strips. Such strips 59 are located at points circumferentially around the element 22, preferably 90 degrees apart, as shown in Fig. 5.

The stator partition eIement23-has-the entire inner surface lined with a pronged plate 39, and extending the full axial length of the element.

The stator element 24, around its upper perimeter and on both faces, mounts rings land 62, complementary of the rings 32 whereby the element 24 is bonded around its lower perimeter to the platform 28. Between the rings 32 and 61, on the exterior surface, the element 24 mounts a pronged plate 63. At several points'here shown to be four (see Fig. 4)circum"ferentiallyaround the interior of the element 24, and depending from the ring 62 for more than half of the axial length of the element 24, are short, arcuate-pronged members '64the prongs being on the face of the member opposed to the element 24. Each of these members 6-4 is formed with a flange 65 (see Figs. 4 and 9). This flange 65 and the ring 62 close the space between the element and the member 65 along the top and advancing edges of the member 65, thus forming a pocket 66 open at the trailing and bottom edges of the member 65.

At circumferentially-spaced points on the exterior face of the element 24 are placed axially-disposed baffles 67 (see Figs. 4 and 9). These are shown here in the form of rectangular pieces substantially like the rings 32 and 61. In this particular adaptation these bafiles 67 are shown spaced apart circumferentially 90 degrees. They could be differentially spaced, of course, if conditions required.

Stator element 25 mounts a pronged plate 68 around the entire interior surface and for the full axial length thereof.

The annulus 35, of the stator element 26, has its upper face overlaid with a pronged annulus 69. Between the stator element 26 and the tank ring 17 are arranged a series of circumferentially spaced vertical baffle plates 70 attached to inner wall of the tank shell 12 (see Fig. 3). v

The rotor disk '41, from which the elements 43 and 44 are suspended, mounts on its upper face a series of circumferentially spaced, radially extending, arcuate-shaped strips 40 formed with prongs 40a (see Fig. 3).

The innermost element 42, on its exterior surface, mounts a plurality of circumferentially spaced, angularly disposed fins 71. In this adaptation these fins are shown spaced apart circumferentially 90 degrees. The angular dispositionis such as to make the under face the advancing one when the rotor C is rotated in a counterclockwise direction.

The rotor element 43, on both surfaces of its lower half, mounts a series of axially spaced, circumferentially continuous rings 72 transversely staggered with relation to the rings 57 on the stator element 22. Between these rings 72, circumferentially spaced around both faces of the element 43, are pronged strips 73, here shown to be four in number on each element face (see Figs. 4 and 5). Between the upper ring 72 and the disk 41 of the rotor C, on its outer surface, the rotor element 43 mounts a series of circumferentially spaced and angularly disposed pronged fins 74 (see Figs. 1, 2, and 7). Generally, the circumferential spacing of the fins 74 would be 90 degrees and the angularity is such that the under-pronged face 74 is the advancing face when the rotor C is rotated in a counterclockwise direction. The position of these fins 74, axially of the element 43, is such that they are about on a transverse alinement with the open bottom of the pockets 66 formed behind the members 64 on the opposed stator element 24.

The rotor element 44, in addition to being lined with a pronged plate 75, mounts fins 76 and pronged strips 77 and has a series of openings 78 formed therein adjacent to the inner perimeter at circumferentially spaced points, preferably 90 degrees apart.

The pronged plate extends around the entire interior surface of the element 44. The fins 76 are located on the inner face of the element in advance of the respective opening 78 and are similarly angulated to the otherfins so that the under face is the advancing one when the rotor C is rotating in a counterclockwise direction. The pronged strips 77 are secured to the outer face of the element-44 rotatively rearward of the respective openings 78.

A fibrillating machine. of this kind is adapted for association with other equipment in the carrying out of a process of disintegrating once-used cellulose material and reducing it to a fibrous condition for' subsequent treatment to oxidize or separate the ink, wax, and other non-cellulosic material used in-the stock from which the pulp is made for treatment by this machine.

Such a processand the coacting equipment for carrying it out is schematically illustrated in Fig. 11, where are juxtaposed two fibrillatingmachines of the herein described character.

In such a fiber-recovering system, the equipment for carrying out the successive steps involves, in order, a pulper 79, an accumulating reservoir 80, a pair of fibrillating machines 81 and 82 such as herein described, and 'a pair of washing units 83 and 84. With such equipment is associated the requisite motors and pumps indicated by M and P respectively, water jets, conveyors C, and skimming tanks, as appropriately designated or indicated in the aforesaid Fig. 11.

This over-all process being well known in the paper making industry, and itself not forming a part of this invention, no further explanation of the process is deemed necessary here.

The operation of the herein described fibrillating machine is as follows: N

The cellulosic pulp, which is to be thoroughly disintegrated in its high turbulence passage through this machine, enters the inlet port 18 and, during the relative rotation of the stator and rotor elements, by gravitational and centrifugal forces is caused to traverse the circuitous and restricted passage between the opposed faces of the several concentrically arranged, overlapping elements. This passage being so tortuous and lined with pronged plates, strips, fins, and baffles, obviously a quantity of the cellulosic pulp accumulates in the tank A above the rotor disk 41. The rotation of this disk 41, with its pronged strips 40, initiates the swirling agitation of the pulp and forces it centrifugally outward against the fins 70. These fins tend to force the counterclockwise swirl-v ing pulp mass downwardly against the stator element 26.

As portions of this swirling mass are sufliciently disintegrated they will pass down through the narrow annular opening 49, between the perimeter of the disk 41 and the opposed face 85 of the stator element 26, and also down through the apertures 38 in the rings 34. Such of the material as passes through these apertures 38 in the ring 34 has first to traverse the pronged annulus 69 and pass over the outer perimeter thereof and enter the space between the annulus 35 and the ring 36.

The partially disintegrated material, gravitating down through the passage 49 and the apertures 38, accumulates in the space between the stator elements 24 and 25 and the shell 12. The whirling of the rotor element 44, in

the inner of these spaces, further agitates this partially disintegrated mass and swirls it against the pronged plates 63, 75, 68 and the strips 77. The fins 76, meanwhile, tend to create a downward pressure on the swirling mass between the elements 25 and 44 and force it around under the end of the rotor element 44 and through the openings 78 into the space between the elements 44 and 24. In this latter space the swirling mass is further agitated by the bafiies 67 as the material tends to move with the pronged inner face of the rotating element 44.

All this agitation and pressure, created in the space between the elements 25 and 44, tends to press the further disintegrated pulp up through the narrow passage between the rings 61 and 60 at the upper end of the element 24 and the under face of the disk 41 and into the space between the stator element 24 and the rotor element 43.

Turbulence pressure and gravity, acting on the disintegrated material as it enters the space between the elements 24 and 43, tends to move the material down toward the very restricted passage 86 between the rotating element 43 and the stator element 23.

6 toward the narrow passage between the lower portion of the rotating element 43 and the stator element 23.

The pockets 66, being closed at the back and along the upper and advance edges, the pressuring of the disintegrated material into these pockets helps to further agitate the swirling mass and also create some back pressure in aid of gravity to keep the mass moving down through the very restricted passage between the elements 23 and 43.

The disintegrating material, swirling downwardly through and between this restricted and pronged passage between the elements 23 and 43, is subjected to such a severe stress and under a very high turbulence as to greatly accelerate the breaking up and separating of the fibers from the ink, wax, clay and other noncelluiosic substances constituting a part of the stock from which the entering pulp was made.

Obviously, it is the pressure against the constantly incoming flow of pulp and the partially-disintegrated material which descends through the space between'the elements 23 and 43 that creates the pressure necessary to force the now further disintegrated mass up through the space between the rotor element 43 and the next inward stator element 22.

In this latter passage, the pronged strips 73 and 59 and the pronged plates 58 give this disintegrating material its final buffeting as it is swirled around the stator element 22. As the inevitable pressures in the machine move along the flow of disintegrating material, it passes up over the upper end of the stator element 22 and descends into the open space within that element. Freed from the previous intense action, the material, in this open space within the element 22, has a tendency to settle and gravitate toward the base 27 of the element 22, whence it flows out through the apertures 30 into the chamber 15.

The rotating fins 71, on the element 42, tend to supplement gravity and accelerate the passage of the now thoroughly disintegrated material through the apertures 30 into the chamber 15.

From the chamber 15 the disintegrated material moves on through the washing steps of the recovery process illustrated in the Fig. 11.

Although but one specific embodiment of this invention is herein shown and described, it will be understood that numerous details of the construction shown may be altered or omitted without departing from the spirit of the invention as defined by the following claims.

I claim:

1. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, a fiat disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port and formed with an annular series of apertures, a plurality of axially spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed to the disk, a shaft journaled in the tank, a second flat disk fixed to the shaft in axially-spaced relationship to the first disk and being of a diameter less than the inside diameter of the tank, a ring fixed on the inner periphery of the tank in radial alinement with the second disk and formed with. an annular series of apertures, a second ring fixed on the inner periphery of the tank in axially-spaced relationship above the first ring, a series of angularly-disposed baffles fixed on the inner face of the tank intermediate the two rings, a plurality of axiallyspaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the second disk and interposed between the respective elements on the first disk and thereby forming a circuitous passage betweenthe tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, and pronged means variously fixed on the upper faces of the second disk and the opposed ring and on the opposed faces of the cylindrical elements to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage, for discharge through the apertures in the first-mentioned disk.

2. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an inner concentric-cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition'to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axiallycpaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of-axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, and pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the several elements to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage.

3. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the storesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axiallyspaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, aplurality of axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the several elements, and a series of axially spaced rings fixed on the opposed faces of a pair of adjacent overlapping elements, axially-disposed pronged strips fixed to the rings in circumferentially-spaced relationship and coacting with the pronged plates to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellnlosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage.

4. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axially-spaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent elementon the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the several elements, a series of axially-spaced rings fixed on the opposed overlapping faces of the innermost element on the first disk and the adjacentelement on the second disk, and axiallydisposed pronged strips fixed to the rings in circumferentially-spaced relationship and coacting with the pronged plates to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage.

5. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tankand the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to the tank wall, .a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements ixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axiallyspaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elementsthereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the several elements, a series of axially-spaced rings fixed on the opposite faces of the innermost element on the second disk and on the outer face of the innermost element on the first disk, and axially-disposed circumferentially-spaced pronged strips fixed to the rings on the aforesaid elements and coacting with the pronged plates to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage.

6. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, a plurality of axially spaced variable length concentric cylindricalelements fixed to the disk, a shaft journaled in the tank, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axially-spaced relationship to the first disk, a plurality of axially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the second disk and interposed between the respective elements on the first disk and thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, a plurality of circumferentially-spaced arcuate members secured to one face of one of the elements to form pockets closed along the top and advancing edges but open along the bottom and trailing edges thereof, a plurality of angularly-disposed circumferentially-spaced fins secured to the opposed face of the adjacent concentric element in approximate alinement with the lower open edges of the arcuate members whereby the relative rotation of the arcuate members and fins tends to force cellulosic pulp into the pockets and create a back pressure between the relatively rotating elements, and pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the concentric elements and coasting with the aforesaid members and fins to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fi brillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage.

7. A fibrillatingmachine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanningthe tank above the outlet port, an inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a

concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variablelength concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axially-spaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between-the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, a plurality of circumferentially-spaced arcuate members secured to one face of one of the elements to form pockets closed along the top and advancing edges but open at the bottom and the trailing edges thereof, a plurality of angularlydisposed circumferentia'lly-spaced fins secured to the opposed face of the adjacent concentric element in approximate alinement with the lower open edges of the arcuate members whereby the relative rotation of the arcuate members and fins tends to force cellulosic pulp into the pockets and create a back pressure between the relatively rotating elements, and pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the concentric elements and coacting with the aforesaid members and fins to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage.

8. A fibrillating machine comprising, ajtank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axiallyspaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of axial-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second ,disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, a plurality of 'circumferentially-spaced arcuate members secured to the inner face of the innermost element on the partition platform to form pockets closed along the top and advancing edges but open along the bottom and the trailing edges thereof, a plurality of angularly-disposed circumferentially-spaced fins secured to the opposed face of the adjacent element on the second disk in approximate alinement with the lower open edges of the arcuate memberswhereby the relative rotation of the arcuate members and. the'fins tends to force cellulosic pulp into the pockets and create a back pressure between the relatively rotating elements, and pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the concentric elements and coacting with the aforesaid members and fins to so restrict the passage asto accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage.

9. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an

inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axially-spaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, a plurality of circumferentially-spaced arcuate members secured to one face of one of the elements to form pockets closed along the top and advancing edges but open at the bottom and the trailing edges thereof, a plurality of angularly-disposed circumferentially-spaced fins secured to the opposed face of the adjacent concentric element in approximate alinement with the lower open edges of the arcuate members whereby the relative rotation of the arcuate members and fins tends to force the cellulosic pulp into the pockets and create a back pressure between the relatively rotating elements, pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the concentric elements and coacting with the aforesaid members and fins to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage, a drum fixed on the shaft concentrically inward of the innermost cylindrical element on the first disk, and circumferentially-spaced angulated finsfixed on the drum adapted to facilitate the discharge of fibrillated pulp through the apertures in the first disk.

10. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axially-spaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, a plurality of circumferentially-spaced arcuate members secured to one face of one of the elements to form pockets closed along the top and advancing edges but open at the bottom and the trailing edges thereof, a plurality of angularly-disposed circumferentially-spaced fins secured to the opposed face of the adjacent concentric element in approximate alinement with the lower open edges of the arcuate members whereby the relative rotation of the arcuate members and fins tends to force cellulosic pulp into the pockets and create a back pressure between the relatively rotating elements, circumferentially-spaced anguilated fins fixed on the inner face of the outermost ele' 171 ment on the second disk, and pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the concentric elements and coacting with the aforesaid members and fins to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the passage.

11. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having,

axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partitionv to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axially-spaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, a series of axial-spaced rings fixed on the opposite faces of the innermost element on the second disk and on the opposed face of the adjacent element on the first disk, axially disposed circumferentially spaced pronged strips fixed to the rings on the aforesaid elements, a plurality of circumferentiallyspaced arcuate members secured in axially-spaced relationship to the inner face of the innermost element on the partition platform to form pockets closed along the top and advancing edges but open along the bottom and trailing edges thereof, a plurality of angularly-disposed circumferentially-spaced fins secured to the opposed face of the adacent element on the second disk approximately in alinement with the lower open edges of the arcuate members whereby the relative rotation of the arcuate members and the fins tends to force cellulosic pulp into thelpockets and create a back pressure between the relative rotating elements, circumferentially-spaced angularly-disposed fins fixed on the inner face of the outermost element on the second disk, and pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the concentric elements and coacting with the pronged strips, rings, members and fins to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet and being forced through the passage.

12. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, an

inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a

concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to the tank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axially-spaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements, a plurality of axially-spaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the outermost element on the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next'adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous pas i2 sage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, a series of axially spaced rings fixed on the opposite faces of the innermost element on the second disk and on the opposed face of the adjacent element of the first disk,

axially-disposed circumferentially-spaced pronged strips fixed to the rings on the aforesaid elements, a plurality of circumferentially-spaced arcuate members secured in,

axially-spaced relationship to the inner face of the innermost element on the partition platform to form pockets closed along the top and advancing edges but open along the bottom and trailing edges thereof a plurality of angulariy-disposecl circumferentially-spaced fins secured to the opposed face of the adjacent element on the second disk approximately in alinement with the lower open edges of the arcuate members whereby the relative rota-- rion of the arcuate members and the fins tends to force cellulosic pulp into the pockets and create a back pressure between the relatively-rotating elements, circumferentially-spaccd angularly-disposed fins fixed on the inner face of the outermost element on the second disk, a drum fixed to the shaft concentrically within the innermost element on the first disk, circumferentially-spaced angularly-disposed fins fixed on the drum, and pronged plates variously fixed on the opposed faces of the concentric elements and coacting with the pronged strips,

rings, members and fins to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet and being forced through the passage.

13. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, an apertured disk transversely spanning the tank above the outlet port, and inner concentric cylindrical element fixed to the disk, a concentric partition element fixed on the disk intermediate the tank and the inner element and having an integral radially-disposed platform extending from the partition to thefltank wall, a pair of radially-spaced variable-length concentric cylindrical elements fixed on the platform, a shaft journaled in the tank concentrically of the aforesaid elements, a second disk fixed to the shaft in axiallyspaced relationship to the above-noted cylindrical elements and being of a diameter less than the inside diameter of the tank, an apertured ring secured to the inner face of the tank and mounting an annulus of lesser diameter in spaced relationship thereto and in radial alinement with the second disk with its outer edge spaced from the tank wall, a second ring secured to the inner face of the tank axially outwardly of the annulus, a series of angularly-disposed fins fixed on the inner face of the tank intermediate of the two rings, a plurality of axiallyspaced concentric cylindrical elements dependently mounted on the second disk and respectively interposed between the cylindrical elements on the first disk, the

' outermost element 'of the second disk being positioned between the two elements on the partition platform and the next innermost element on the second disk being interposed between the partition and the next adjacent element on the first disk, the concentric elements thereby forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports, means for rotating the shaft, a series of axially-spaced rings fixed on the opposite faces of the innermost element on the second disk and on the opposed face of the adjacent element on the first disk, axially-disposed circumferentially-spaced pronged strips fixed to the rings on the aforesaid elements, a plurality of circumferentiallyspaced arcuate members secured in axially-spaced relationship to the inner face of the innermost element on the partition platform to form pockets closed along the top and advancing edges but open along the bottom and trailing edges thereof, a plurality of angularly-disposed circumferentially-spaced fins secured to the opposed face of the adjacent element on the second disk approximately in alinement with the. lower open edges of the arcuate members whereby the relative rotation of the arcuate members andthe fins tends to force cellulosic pulp into thepocketsand create a back pressure between the relatively-rotating elements, circumferentially-spaced angularly-disposed fins fixed on the inner face of the outermost element on the second disk, and pronged plates variously fixed-on the opposed faces of the concentric elements and coacting with the pronged strips, rings, members and fins to so restrict the passage as to accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic plup entering the tank inlet and being forced through the passage.

14. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, a stator and a rotor each including a mounting supporting oppositely-extending concentrically-arranged axially-overlapping cylindrical elements, an intermediate stator element having an outwardly-extending partition radially-disposed intermediate the inlet and outlet ports and providing support for the stator elements radially-outward from the intermediate stator element, the overlapping elements forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports the axial length of the passage section which is radially outward of the intermediate stator elements being materially less than the axial length of the passage which is radially-inward of the intermediate stator element, means for effecting the relative rotation of the stator and rotor elements, and pronged means variously arranged on the opposed faces of the several elements to so restrict the passage between the elements as to create a high turbulence throughout the passage and accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the outlet port.

15. A fibrillating machine comprising, a tank having axially-spaced inlet and outlet ports, a stator and rotor each including a mounting supporting oppositely-extending concentrically-arranged axially-overlapping cylindrical elements, an intermediate stator element having an outwardly-extending partition radially-disposed intermediate the inlet and outlet ports and providing support for the stator elements radially-outward from the intermediate stator element, the overlapping elements forming a circuitous passage between the tank ports the axial length of the passage section which is radially outward of the inter-mediate stator elements being materially less than the axial length of the passage which is radially-inward of the inter-mediate stator element, means for etfecting the relative rotation of the stator and rotor elements, pronged means variously arranged on the opposed faces of the several elements to so restrict the passage between the elements as to create a high turbulence throughout the passage and accelerate the fibrillating of the cellulosic pulp entering the tank inlet port and being forced through the outlet port, and axially-disposed narrow auxiliary strips secured in circumferentially-spaced relationship to the opposed pronged faces of certain of the elements to accentuate the turbulent action of the pulp traversing the passage.

References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS 807,228 Wurster Dec. 12, 1905 1,050,212 Kurtz-Hahnle Jan. 14, 1913 1,187,932 Ryther June 20, 1916 1,913,540 Fritz June 13, 1933 2,468,389 Auer Apr. 26, 1949 2,645,982 Cowles July 21, 1953 2,672,075 Fraser Mar. 16, 1954 

